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THE GOLDEN AGE
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These magnificent convertible belongs to the golden age of Mercedes, of the very highest quality and prestigious, they represented a true symbol of social success and good taste. Looking back, now, we can consider these to be the very last classic Mercedes convertible, before the shift into the era of invasive electronics, "plastics" and “modern technologies”, and the standardisation of models. Strangely enough, they’re still somewhat overlooked. However, the cars on offer come from a variety of backgrounds, often from the United States and are of highly variable quality. At the moment, the market doesn’t really distinguish between the different models and their condition. It’s time to acquire one, taking care to choose a lovely one. |
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Following in the Pagode’s footsteps, difficult ? But not impossible... It was a difficult task, but the success was undeniable. The beautiful, more modern design demonstrates high classical mastery, One need only appreciate how its elegance endures, still untouched by the passing decades. Replacing the legendary "Pagode" in the Mercedes range, these models were brought to market from 1971 to 1989, with variations over the years. |
Just as beautiful with its hardtop, a light-filled cabin with lovely glass surfaces
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These convertibles are, at the time of their
launch, powered by V8 engines and are aimed at
the North American market. Towards the end of
1974, this excellent version with a 2.8-litre
inline six-cylinder engine appears. Various
other engine options will follow. It is these
early, ‘original’ 280 SL models, with their pure
designs, that are among the most sought-after
and desirable, more agile, free from unnecessary
complications, extremely reliable and have
maintenance that are significantly lower than
those of V8s.
The engine, featuring dual overhead camshafts,
produces 185 ch. DIN and propels the convertible
to speeds exceeding 200 km/h.
The line evocates both luxury and elegance;
we’ve coming to appreciate this design more and
more, year after year. It’s a pleasure to drive,
both in town and on the open road, and the
behaviour is responsive and safe.
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The stunning hardtop transforms the SL into the
perfect Grand Tourer for the winter. These
Mercedes are certainly worth rediscovering, they
are particularly interesting and a pleasure to
drive, combining particularly every quality, and
are absolutely unrivalled at this price point.
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This 280 SL, originally delivered new in France,
is remarkably preserved; measured,
its
paintwork appears to be entirely original, with
the exception of one wing, which has undoubtedly
been veiled, presumably correcting a scratch.
This car has had very few owners. The
interior is in pristine condition, with the
leather in perfect condition.
On the day of our
acquisition, the odometer read just over 98,000
km, having examined the records of successive
MOT tests since 1992 (at that time, it had
82,000 km) and given its exceptional, unrestored
condition, this very low mileage is undoubtedly
genuine.
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51 YEARS OLD PASSED,
INSIDE AND OUT : IN EXTREMELY RARE ORIGINAL CONDITION
Mercedes Classic : the right equipment, automatic gearbox, power steering and electric windows.
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Lighter and simpler, with no ABS or often unnecessary complications, we appreciate the manually adjustable wing mirrors, just like the seats, manually adjustable, which fulfil their function without adding weight or increasing the risk of breakdowns. |
THE RIGHT MODEL AT THE RIGHT TIME
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